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Bacteria in Your Mouth: What It Means for Your Health?

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Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications

The human mouth is home to microorganisms, even though you cannot feel or see them. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more. There are over 700 different species of bacteria living in the oral cavity. Some are harmless or even helpful, while others can cause problems. Keep reading to learn about common oral bacteria and their role, the issues caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the mouth, and tips to manage them.

The Role of Oral Bacteria

Oral bacteria live in different parts of your mouth, such as teeth, cheek linings, tongue, and the pockets between teeth and gums. Good bacteria play an important role in maintaining oral health. However, their imbalance can promote bad bacteria, leading to cavities, gum diseases, and other health problems. Balancing oral bacteria supports your oral and overall health in various ways, such as: 

  • Maintain oral health: Bacteria help keep the mouth healthy by maintaining a good oral environment.

  • Protects the mouth: Communities of bacteria form layers that protect gums and teeth from harmful bacteria and pathogens. 

  • Support digestion: Some bacteria, called probiotics, help break down food, aiding digestion. They also help the body absorb vitamins and minerals.

  • Support immunity: By keeping harmful microbes in check, good bacteria support the body’s immune system and avoid inflammation.

Common Bacteria Found in The Mouth

Different types of bacteria reside in the mouth, forming the majority of the oral microbes. Some have thicker cell walls and less odor than others. These are called gram-positive bacteria and are usually found in plaque on teeth. Gram-negative bacteria are odorous and usually reside on the tongue. Some help digest food, while others cause infections, bad breath, and gum problems. Following are some common kinds of bacteria in the mouth and their  its impact on dental health: 

Staphylococcus Aureus 

Staphylococcus Aureus or S. aureus is a type of gram-bacteria. It is commonly found on the skin, nose, and, sometimes, in the mouth. Though harmless in a healthy individual, it can cause infections if your immune system is weak. S. aureus bacteria are often responsible for infections after surgery or injury. They are contagious and can spread from one person to another through contact or air droplets.

Staph infection can affect different parts, such as the skin, digestive system, and lungs. In the mouth, these bacteria can contribute to oral infections or periodontal disease amidst poor oral hygiene. Treatment of staph infections usually involves antibiotic medications. Good oral hygiene practices help limit the growth and spread of these bacteria.

Streptococcus Pyogenes / Streptococcus Mutans

Both are gram-positive bacteria found in the mouth. The imbalance of streptococcus pyogenes often causes infections that can cause mild to severe complications. A weakened immune system or trauma can increase the risk factors. The common oral problems from these bacteria include strep throat, which involves swollen tonsils. Infections from these bacteria are usually treated with antibiotic medicines.

Streptococcus mutans or S. mutans is probably the type you have heard about most. These bacteria reside on tooth surfaces, as well as in difficult areas like pits and fissures. They are mainly linked to cavities. These bacteria feed on the residues of starches and sugars on teeth and release acids that erode the tooth enamel. Amidst poor dental care and a sugary diet, these bacteria thrive, leading to tooth decay and dental caries.

Actinomyces

Actinomyces are gram-positive bacteria naturally found in the mouth, especially in plaque on teeth. They are usually harmless unless injuries or surgeries cause them to grow in areas they do not belong. Infection occurs when they overgrow or affect deeper tissues. Actinomycosis, a chronic infection, usually affects the face and mouth. It may cause abscesses or lumpy swellings on the jaw, neck, or face. Left untreated, it may spread to other parts like the lungs and abdominal organs.

Several other types of bacteria are also present, some of which are linked to gum problems. These include Treponema denticola and Porphyromonas gingivalis. These bacteria grow in the absence of oxygen and multiply quickly. They thrive when dental hygiene is neglected and can infect the gums, leading to gum disease. 

The Consequences of Imbalanced Oral Bacteria

If managed properly, bacteria in the oral microbiome support oral health. However, an imbalance can affect the mouth and overall health. It lets bad bacteria dominate and disturb the oral environment. As a result, issues such as tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and bad breath arise. Over time, untreated bacterial infection affects other body parts, causing diseases. With proactive care and good oral hygiene, you can improve the defense against the following problems:

  • Tooth decay: Harmful bacteria thrive by feeding on sugary foods and produce acids that weaken the tooth enamel. This causes tooth decay and dental caries or cavities. Left untreated, they cause pain and sensitivity, eventually leading to tooth loss.

  • Gum disease: Without proper oral care, bad bacteria multiply and infect the gums. This results in gum inflammation. The early stage of gum disease (gingivitis) involves soreness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums while brushing or flossing. If not treated, it progresses to advanced periodontal disease. At this stage, the infection affects the supporting bones and tissues, causing loose teeth and even tooth loss.

  • Plaque build-up: Bad bacteria multiply quickly in the absence of proper dental care and thrive on sugary food residues. These bacteria form a sticky biofilm called plaque on teeth surfaces, grooves, between teeth, and along the gumline. If not cleaned with proper brushing and flossing, dental plaque hardens to tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.

  • Bad breath: Bacteria thrive on the tongue, and other parts of the mouth release compounds that cause bad odor. Without good oral hygiene, the bad bacteria in the mouth multiply, resulting in persistent bad breath or halitosis. This is why cleaning the tongue regularly is as important as cleaning the teeth.

  • Oral infections: An imbalance of oral bacteria can cause infection of gums and other soft tissues. It may result in swelling, pain, and discomfort while chewing. Untreated, the infection may spread to nearby areas and deeper tissue, causing more serious health issues, including fever.

  • Systemic health issues: An untreated oral infection can affect other body parts over time. It releases bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream. This may result in health problems, such as heart disease or respiratory issues. It may also complicate conditions like diabetes.

Managing Oral Bacteria

You can balance the bacteria in your mouth with an excellent oral care routine, regular dental checkups, and a healthy diet. These help prevent plaque buildup, limit the growth of harmful bacteria, and save you from potential health issues. You may consider the following tips to manage oral bacteria for a healthy mouth:

  • Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day. Dentistry recommends using fluoride toothpaste. The inclusion of antibacterial properties helps fight bad bacteria efficiently.

For instance, the Colgate Total Active Prevention toothpaste fights the root cause of common oral care concerns. These include plaque, tartar, gum problems, sensitivity, enamel erosion, bad breath, cavities, and stains. The toothpaste formula offers 24-hour antibacterial action* and helps prevent oral care problems before they start.

  • Flossing: It is essential to floss once daily. This removes plaque and bacteria hiding between teeth and other difficult areas. You may use dental floss, a water flosser, or an interdental toothbrush.

  • Rinsing: your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash. It washes away harmful bacteria responsible for bad breath, keeping the mouth clean and the breath fresh.

  • Watch your diet: Limit starchy and sugary foods and opt for foods that support your oral health. Make sure to rinse thoroughly with water after every meal or snack.

  • Regular dental visits: Ensure routine dental checkups every six months. Professional dental cleanings not only prevent the build-up of plaque but also help rule out potential problems.

Balancing the bacteria in the mouth is vital for good oral health. Though some support oral health, others can be problematic if not managed. Limiting bad bacteria with proactive care is crucial for a healthy smile. A consistent dental care regimen prevents plaque and bad bacteria buildup. Good oral hygiene practices, regular dental checkups, and a healthy diet are the key.

*with 2x daily brushing with 4 weeks continued use

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do oral bacteria affect overall health?

Oral bacteria can spread to other body parts through the bloodstream. An imbalance lets bad bacteria overgrow and cause infections. Untreated infections release bad bacteria and toxins, leading to systemic health problems like heart disease and other complications. However, managing oral bacteria supports your oral and overall health.

2. What causes an imbalance of oral bacteria?

The common culprits are poor oral hygiene, dietary and lifestyle habits, and weakened immunity. These conditions let harmful bacteria multiply and disturb the balance of good and bad bacteria in the mouth. Besides, skipping regular dental checkups or using certain medications that reduce saliva flow can add to this imbalance.

3. Can oral bacteria lead to bad breath?

Yes, the overgrowth of bad bacteria in the mouth often results in bad breath or halitosis. These bacteria hide on the tongue, in between teeth, and in the gum pockets. They thrive on food residues and release foul-smelling compounds, leading to bad breath.

4. What are the early signs of harmful oral bacterial overgrowth?

Early signs of harmful oral bacterial overgrowth include plaque or tartar buildup and bad breath. Sensitive teeth, dental caries, and swollen gums that bleed when you brush or floss may also indicate bacterial buildup. Addressing these signs early on is vital to prevent more severe dental health problems.

5. Is it possible to completely eliminate harmful oral bacteria?

As harmful bacteria are part of the natural oral microbiome, removing them completely is not possible. However, you can prevent their overgrowth with proactive care. Balancing oral bacteria requires maintaining good bacteria while limiting the harmful ones. Good oral hygiene practices, regular dental checkups, and a healthy diet are the key.